Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s rich history and natural beauty. Embarking from the picturesque Mirabello Bay, travelers will discover the intriguing story of the former leper colony on Spinalonga Island. A delightful barbecue lunch and opportunities for swimming and sightseeing in Agios Nikolaos further enhance the experience. With a personalized approach and a maximum of 50 participants, this day trip promises an unforgettable adventure in the stunning landscapes of Greece.

Key Points

• This cruise day trip offers a chance to explore the historic island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony, from Heraklion, Greece.
• The itinerary includes a sightseeing drive to Agios Nikolaos’ harbor and its bottomless lake, as well as a BBQ lunch and drinks.
• The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, catering to travelers with young children and mobility concerns.
• Pricing starts from £36.53 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and the option to reserve now and pay later.
• With a maximum of 50 travelers, the cruise ensures a personalized and comfortable experience, though some reviews mention language barriers.

Overview of the Cruise Trip

This day trip from Heraklion, Greece, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the picturesque town of Elounda and the captivating island of Spinalonga.

The cruise in Mirabello Bay allows travelers to discover Spinalonga, a former 20th-century leper colony. Onshore activities include exploring the island’s ruins, swimming, and enjoying a barbecue lunch.

The excursion also includes a sightseeing drive to Agios Nikolaos’ harbor and its renowned bottomless lake.

With a maximum of 50 travelers, this small-group experience provides a personalized and immersive look into the history and natural beauty of this region of Crete.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The day trip includes pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Heraklion, Malia, Hersonissos, and surrounding areas.

A professional guide is included to accompany the group.

The cruise takes travelers to and from Spinalonga Island, where they can explore the ruins.

A BBQ lunch and drinks are provided.

The entrance fee for Spinalonga (€8.00) is only included in the German option.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers.

Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Accessibility and Additional Information

The cruise trip is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Infants must sit on laps, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Whether you’re traveling with young children or have mobility concerns, this cruise trip to Elounda and Spinalonga Island caters to the needs of all guests, providing a seamless and accessible adventure.

Pricing and Booking

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise can be booked at a price starting from £36.53 per person, ensuring a competitive and affordable option for travelers.

The tour operator offers a lowest price guarantee, allowing customers to secure their spot with the confidence of getting the best value.

Travelers also have the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning their trip.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Booking can be done conveniently, with confirmation received at the time of reservation and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Reviews and Feedback

Overall rating of the Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise stands at 4.3 based on 20 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the friendly staff, comfortable boat experience, knowledgeable guides, and delicious food. However, some travelers reported tour cancellations due to language requirements.

Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback
Friendly staff	Tour cancellations
Comfortable boat	Language requirements
Knowledgeable guides	–
Delicious food	–
Memorable experience	–

The reviews suggest the Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise offers a well-rounded experience, though tour organizers should address language barriers to ensure a seamless experience for all travelers.

Exploring Spinalonga Island

What makes Spinalonga Island such a captivating destination on this cruise? Spinalonga is a small, rocky island with a rich and somber history. Visitors can explore the ruins of the former leper colony, which operated from 1903 to 1957.

The island offers a glimpse into the past, with:

• Crumbling fortress walls and buildings that evoke a sense of isolation and hardship
• Emotional stories of the island’s former residents and their struggles with leprosy
• Breathtaking views of the surrounding Mirabello Bay and the rugged Cretan landscape
• An opportunity to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Sightseeing in Agios Nikolaos

After exploring the captivating Spinalonga Island, the cruise takes visitors to the harbor of Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town known for its reputedly bottomless lake.

Guests can stroll along the waterfront, admiring the charming cafes, boutiques, and traditional Greek architecture. The main attraction is the town’s unique lake, which is connected to the sea but remains calm and tranquil.

Visitors may take a boat tour to experience the lake’s serene beauty up close. The sightseeing drive also offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline, providing a well-rounded peek into the natural splendor of this region of Crete.

Highlights of the Cruise Experience

The cruise to Spinalonga Island offers an immersive experience for visitors, allowing them to explore the historic ruins and natural beauty of this captivating destination.

The journey across the serene Mirabello Bay promises stunning vistas, while the island itself unveils a poignant history as a former leper colony.

Highlights of the cruise include:

• Wandering through the eerie yet captivating ruins, which stand as a testament to Spinalonga’s complex past
• Cooling off with a refreshing swim in the inviting waters surrounding the island
• Savoring a delicious barbecue lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery
• Gaining insights from the knowledgeable guide, who brings the island’s history to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Guests are generally not permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour includes a barbecue lunch and drinks, so outside items are typically not allowed. Guests should check with the tour provider for any specific policies.

Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?

There is no formal dress code for the cruise. Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for the warm weather and boat environment is recommended. Swimwear and sun protection may be appropriate if guests plan to swim or sunbathe during the excursion.

Are Lifejackets Provided During the Cruise?

Lifejackets are typically provided during the cruise for safety purposes. Guests are advised to wear them as directed by the crew, especially during boat transfers and while exploring the island. The availability and use of lifejackets helps ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

Can I Take a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Private tours are not typically offered for this cruise experience. The tour operates on a group basis with a maximum of 50 travelers. Individual or customized private tours may be available upon request but would likely require additional fees and advance booking.

Are There Any Stops for Shopping or Souvenirs During the Cruise?

The cruise day trip does not include any dedicated stops for shopping or purchasing souvenirs. The focus is on exploring the historical sites of Spinalonga Island and enjoying the scenic Mirabello Bay cruise. There may be limited opportunities to purchase items at the port.

The Sum Up

The Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip offers a captivating exploration of Mirabello Bay and the historical Spinalonga Island. With a delectable barbecue lunch, diverse onshore activities, and a personalized experience for up to 50 travelers, this day trip provides an unforgettable adventure amidst the stunning landscapes of Greece.